How abuse can affect you

Every fact on this page comes from the NHS and the helplines’ own websites. We last checked it on 6 October 2026. Each helpline shows the date we last checked it. This is general information, not medical advice.

Everyone reacts differently

There is no right or wrong way to feel after abuse. Some people feel affected straight away. Others feel fine for a long time, and things come up later, perhaps around a new relationship, having children, or a reminder of what happened.

The effects of abuse can be long term. The NHS says the effects of trauma, such as flashbacks and nightmares, can start straight after a traumatic event or many months, or even years, later.

Feelings

• fear, anxiety or feeling on edge
• shame or guilt, even though it wasn’t your fault
• anger, sadness or grief
• feeling numb or cut off from yourself

Your mind and body

• trouble sleeping, or nightmares
• memories that come back suddenly and feel very real, often called flashbacks
• finding it hard to concentrate
• tiredness, aches or other physical symptoms

Some people are diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The NHS lists abuse, including childhood or domestic abuse, and physical or sexual assault among the things that can cause it. It says complex PTSD can follow trauma such as child abuse or neglect, or ongoing domestic abuse. If you’re worried about your health, talk to your GP.

You and other people

Abuse can make it hard to trust people, to feel close to someone, or to ask for help. You might avoid people or places that remind you of what happened. These are ways of protecting yourself, and they can ease with time and support.

Ways of coping

People find all sorts of ways to get through. Some help, like talking to someone you trust, being outdoors or routines that feel safe. Some, like drinking more or pushing everyone away, can make things harder over time. If you’re worried about how you’re coping, you don’t have to sort it out alone.

Getting support

Talking to someone who understands abuse can help, whether that’s a helpline, a support group or a counsellor. Read about therapy and counselling, or find an organisation in our Support Directory.

If it’s affecting your job or your studies, read work and study after abuse.

This page gives information, not medical advice. If you’re worried about your health, talk to your GP.

Where this information comes from

• NHS: post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• NHS: complex PTSD
• Mind: helplines
• Samaritans

Checked on 6 October 2026. Helpline hours can change, so check the organisation’s own website too.